iPhone Helping Evaluate Atrial Fibrillation Rhythm Through Technology

Atrial fibrillation (AF), a condition where the top chambers of the heart beat irregularly, is a major health problem. The long-term goal of this project is to use a personal, mobile heart monitor to help patients better recognize recurrent AF and improve patients' ability to better manage their condition. A total of 300 patients with a history of AF will be included in the study, with 150 patients receiving an iPhone with the mobile monitoring device and educational text messaging and the remaining 150 patients continuing with their regular medical care. Each patient will be included in the intervention period for 6 months. The rate of recurrent AF and treatments meant to manage AF and other heart conditions will be determined for both groups. Patients in both groups will complete a series of questionnaires at the start and end of the 6 month study period to look at differences in quality of life and knowledge of AF.